Robert Smith Secures Garbage, My Bloody Valentine, Chvrches for 2026 Cancer Trust Shows
In a significant shift for the Teenage Cancer Trust, Robert Smith of The Cure will curate the 2026 concert series, replacing co-founder Roger Daltrey. Daltrey, the iconic singer of The Who, stepped back after 24 years of leadership. The benefit concerts will take place in late March 2026 at the renowned Royal Albert Hall in London.
2026 Teenage Cancer Trust Concert Series Lineup
Smith has assembled an impressive lineup for the event, which will run from March 23 to March 29. Notable acts include:
- Elbow and Mrcy – March 23
- Manic Street Preachers and The Joy Formidable – March 24
- Mogwai, Craven Faults, and guest Annika Kilkenny – March 25
- My Bloody Valentine and Chvrches (doing a “stripped back” set) – March 27
- Garbage and Placebo (also performing “stripped back”) – March 28
- Wolf Alice and Nilüfer Yanya – March 29
Comedy Night Details
In addition to music, the concert series will feature a comedy night on March 24. The lineup includes established comedians:
- Maisie Adam
- Bridget Christie
- Jack Dee
- Andy Hamilton
- Dom Joly
- Miles Jupp
- Athena Kugblenu
- Stewart Lee
- Dara Ó Briain
Supporting Young Cancer Patients
The Teenage Cancer Trust focuses on improving the lives of young people diagnosed with cancer. It funds specialized nurses, youth workers, and hospital units dedicated to this cause. Daltrey highlighted the vital role of community among young patients in surviving treatment.
Funding and Impact
Since 2000, Daltrey has raised more than $40 million for the organization. The concert series is a cornerstone of their fundraising efforts, and previous events have featured performances from renowned artists such as:
- The Who
- Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds
- Oasis
- Coldplay
- Eric Clapton
- The Cure
Smith expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating, “Teenage Cancer Trust does the most fantastic work. It is a great honor — and a real thrill — to be asked to curate the 2026 shows at the Royal Albert Hall.” He promises a memorable week for attendees.
Ticket Sales Information
Tickets for the 2026 Teenage Cancer Trust concert series will be available for purchase on December 12 at 9 a.m. local time. For more details, visit the El-Balad website.
